DE102009007327A1 - Apparatus and method for producing large PET containers - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing containers (10) filled with liquids (12), wherein the containers (10) are filled with the liquid (12) and sealed with a keg fitting (2), wherein the keg fitting (2) is closed by a Relative movement between the container (10) and the Kegfitting (2) is supplied to the container (10) and the Kegfitting (2) is connected to the container, wherein at least before or during the feeding process or the bonding process, a cleaning treatment of Kegfittings (2) takes place ,

Description

The The present invention relates to a device and a Process for producing filled with liquids Containers and in particular for manufacturing with liquids filled plastic bulk container. From the state The technology has long been barrels or so-called kegs known, for example, as containers for Beer or other liquids with a volume of more be used as 3 l. Typical areas of application are dispensers. However, such kegs have recently been found as well Party kegs or the like application.

since shorter one has gone over to it, also plastics and in particular to use PET for such kegs.

The DE 10 2006 026 279 A1 describes a method and an apparatus for producing packaging units or containers. Each container is closed with a Kegfitting and filled with a liquid product. The filling of the container with the liquid product takes place with their fittings upwardly oriented containers, but after establishing a tight connection between the container and the said fitting, ie the closure of the container.

The WO 2008/145343 describes a method and an apparatus for producing packaging units or containers. In this process, the container is initially filled and only then is a tight connection established between the container and the fitting or closure.

such Fittings or closures for the containers usually have a so-called fitting line in the mounted state inside the container extends. This fitting line is relatively sensitive because they For example, with beer drinks as little as possible Should contain oxygen. Even the fitting itself is in the Treatment is relatively sensitive because of soiling of the Fittings such contamination in the drink could be introduced.

Of the The present invention is therefore based on the object, a method for producing such filled plastic large containers to provide, which one compared to the state the technology allows higher purity. This is inventively a method according to claim 1 and an apparatus according to claim 10 reached. Advantageous embodiments and developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

at a method for manufacturing according to the invention filled with liquids plastic containers The containers are first filled with the liquid filled and then with a Kegfitting locked. According to the invention, the Kegfitting by a relative movement between the container and the Kegfitting supplied to the container and the Kegfitting is connected to the container, at least before or during the feeding operation or the connecting operation (and especially during the feeding process) a cleaning treatment of Kegfittings takes place.

Under a relative movement between the Kegfitting and the container is understood that either the kegfitting is actively moved or the container is moved or both the Kegfitting as also the container are moved towards each other. The attachment process Kegfittings on the container is thus on the one hand from the juxtaposition of the Kegfittings and the container and on the other hand, from the subsequent connecting of the keg fitting with the container together.

there is in the process of the invention, the Kegfitting preferably attached to the already filled container. According to the invention, it is therefore proposed that a cleaning of the kegfittings is made before this filled container is supplied and especially during the actual feeding process or the connection process. Preferably, this cleaning of the Kegfittings performed during the feeding process.

It It should be noted that in the following instead of the term Plastic container also simplifying the term container is used.

Under a cleaning treatment of the Kegfittings is doing that treatment understood what the kegfitting of for the container cleans harmful substances. Such harmful On the one hand, substances can cause soiling in the narrower sense be, but also oxygen components, the durability of the Affect drinks. Also removing this Oxygen components is thus used as cleaning in the sense of the present Understood invention.

Prefers is one in a manufactured container within the Container arranged area of the kegfittings cleaned. In particular, a rinse of the above-mentioned Fitting line made to no extra oxygen into the container to be closed.

Prefers The container is first filled with the liquid filled and then the container closed with the keg fitting.

there is particularly preferred during the manufacturing process the container is aligned with a mouth upwards, d. H. the liquid gets into the container from the top filled.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the line arranged on the Kegfitting is rinsed by means of a gaseous medium and in particular with CO ₂ . In this way, in particular oxygen components can be displaced from the line. So no additional oxygen is introduced into the container.

at Another preferred method is during feeding Kegfittings to the container penetration of liquid into the fitting line. That's the way it is, for example possible that during the feeding of the Kegfittings to the container a fitting closure inside (ie within the container) is opened, during the dipping the line in the product allow the product to enter the line and thus displaced as little volume as possible.

On This way is prevented by the increasing filling level of a product or even product foam the estuary enters the open air. This would be on the one hand could lead to product loss, on the other hand It cause product leftovers in areas outside the container seal could get. This is a disadvantage, because such product residues between the shutter and the container could mold and moisten Containers usually not processed in boxes because they can be directly with the product or with Water are wetted. A wetting with water could be result when the product is rinsed off.

It However, it would also be possible that said fitting closure outside d. H. outside the container is opened to during merging the sealing seal with the sealing surface or directly before rinsing the bottom of the closure. there It is possible this via a foaming process with the foam displacing the air in the closure. This procedure is in particular containers which are wet processed. It would be possible this both described procedures individually or in combination apply.

at a further advantageous embodiment finds the Cleaning the Kegfittingsystems and in particular the rinse the fitting lines during the relative movement between Kegfitting and the container instead. To this concrete Time of flushing can be both time for the manufacturing process can be saved, on the other hand, as explained below, also certain areas of the container even be cleaned.

Next or instead of cleaning the fitting is also a rinse or spraying or dipping the keg fitting from the outside possible in a cleaning medium. In addition, one can also Sterilization of the Kegfittings or a disinfection made be here, for example, a sterilization by means of a UV lamp, a liquid spraying or rinsing or diving or gaseous cleaning possible is. Also a sterilization by means of an electron beam (e-beam) could be used.

Generally it is suggested that during merging the filled container and the closure or Fittings this closure is handled or actuated, so that the quality of the packaging unit improves overall becomes.

at In another preferred method, the fitting is wholly or partially in a separate device, especially before the actual merge operation assembled or assembled with the container.

at Another preferred method is the Kegfitting, in particular during the connection process or the relative movement inspected opposite the container. An inspection This can be done on tightness or on suitable geometry. Such inspection methods can, for example, the optical inspection by means of cameras, for the presence of foam be there or the like.

The inventive method may preferably performed a continuous rotary machine be arranged several side by side on a carousel Wearing treatment stations for containers.

The The present invention is further directed to an apparatus for manufacturing filled with liquid containers directed, these containers with a Kegfitting closed and filled with a liquid are and wherein a connecting device is provided, which connects the containers with the kegfitting and these Connecting device, the containers relative to the Kegfitting - in particular in a longitudinal direction of the container - moves.

According to the invention, the device comprises at least one cleaning device, which at least a portion of the Kegfittings at least before or during the relative movement of the Kegfittings relative to the container or the Verbin cleaning operation of the Kegfittings cleans the container, this cleaning device feeds the Kegfitting a cleaning medium. This cleaning unit may preferably be a unit which supplies a gaseous medium, such as CO ₂ , to the keg fitting or a fitting line. However, other purification units, such as the UV or electron beam cleaning units mentioned above, would also be conceivable.

Preferably predominates the connecting device of the Kegfittings relative to the container in a longitudinal direction of the container. Preferably doing the kegfitting a mouth of the container, in particular from above, fed subsequently to be connected to this mouth.

at a further advantageous method, the connecting device a gripping device for gripping the Kegfittings on. This gripping device can be designed such that the Kegfitting in one Area that is also used in assembled containers arranged above an opening of the container is.

Preferably the cleaning device has a supply line, which supplies a cleaning medium to the keg fitting. Especially is doing the above-mentioned line of Kegfittings this Supplied cleaning medium.

at Another preferred method is the cleaning device executed such that the Kegfitting, and in particular the said line of Kegfittings, supplied cleaning medium also supplied to a headspace of the container becomes. In this way, the same medium is used for rinsing the line is used, also for rinsing the said Headspace, especially in already filled containers used.

Further Advantages and embodiments will be apparent from the attached Drawings:

In this demonstrate:

1 A schematic representation for illustrating a process sequence;

2 a device for attaching a Kegfittings to a container;

3 a schematic sectional view of a Kegfittings;

4 a sectional view of a Kegfittings just before connection to a container;

5 a representation for illustrating a Kopfraumspülung the container;

6 a representation of a container with screw cap;

7 a further illustration of a device according to the invention.

1 shows a schematic representation of a process flow for producing a filled container according to the invention 10 , This is the container 10 each by a gripping device 6 in the area of its mouth 10a held (step I ). In one process step II becomes the container 10 flushed inside, for example by means of a gaseous flushing medium 14 , The conditioner can be over the mouth here 10a of the container 10 respectively. In the flushing medium 14 for rinsing the container 10 and to flush the fitting line 4 can be identical or different.

In a third process step III becomes the container 10 with a liquid 12 ie in particular filled a drink. This is a filling nozzle 16 used here low in the estuary 10a protrudes or slightly above the mouth 10a is arranged and a beam 11 to liquid in the container 10 introduces.

In a fourth process step IV becomes one in its entirety with 2 designated Kegfitting the container 10 which is already with the liquid 12 filled, fed. During this process, the keg fitting, as shown in more detail below, cleaned and in particular a fitting line 4 this kegfittings 2 flushed with a particular gaseous flushing medium. This fitting line 4 can be designed as a rigid structure, but it would also preferably possible that it is in this line 4 is a more or less flexible hose that is attached to a body 40 This Kegfittings is arranged.

In a final process step V becomes the kegfitting 2 with the container 10 connected, said fitting line 4 in the container 10 protrudes.

In the prior art, it was possible the plastic containers 10 to fill as well as conventional keg barrels made of metal, in particular in the same order. So far, the Kegfitting (the closure) 2 brought to the container and then worked, flushed with CO ₂ biased and filled with the product. Also, the present invention allows in principle this processing, which can be used on existing machine concepts.

2 illustrates a lifting unit or Connecting device for a keg fitting 2 , more precisely a Kegfitting 2 pointing to an estuary 10a of the container is snapped. Alternatively, it would also be possible to have a screw connection between the keg fitting 2 and the container 10 provided.

The long stroke for inserting the keg fitting into the container 10 or for further treatment and for pressing and closing the container 10 is needed here is about a cam-controlled role 26 allows (where the curve is not shown). However, it would also be possible to carry out this stroke by means of a pneumatic or a linear drive.

At the in 2 the embodiment shown kegfitting depends 2 in a here half-round except sheet metal pocket 25 which is part of one in its entirety 24 designated connecting device 24 is. However, it would also be possible to feed the kegfittings 2 to use a clip system to the container, ie in particular a gripping clip, which in a corresponding recess 43 (see. 3 ) of the keg fitting 2 intervenes.

In this way it is possible the kegfitting 2 to move without a punch 35 the cleaning device 34 the kegfitting 2 stuck. In this way it is also possible to have a surface of the keg fitting 2 to clean and disinfect.

The reference number 32 refers to a corresponding gripping element or a closure carrier, with which the connecting device 24 in the kegfitting 2 intervenes. About the stamp 34 Can the Kegfitting 2 Cleaning media, such as a flushing medium for flushing the pipe 4 be supplied. The Stamp 35 is designed so that he kegfitting 2 turns on in the desired manner, ie, for example, causes a cleaning from the outside, from the inside or both. It is possible that this stamp 35 in his middle part 37 is guided and in its upper part pneumatically via two supply lines 28 . 30 is supplied.

This corresponding pneumatic drive can be supported or replaced by a mechanical drive. The reference number 22 also refers to a rod guide for guiding the sheet metal bag 25 in the longitudinal direction L of the container.

The corresponding media supply, which is required here for container treatment and for system supply, is available at the in 2 shown embodiment by flexible hoses 28 . 30 executed. It would also be conceivable to use components which seal against one another and are arranged displaceably relative to one another. The reference number 28 refers more specifically to a conduit for controlling a pneumatic cylinder, for example for moving the unit. The Stamp 38 serves to connect the Kegfittings 2 and for sealing, in particular when supplying the flushing medium.

3 shows a sectional view of a Kegfittings 2 , This keg fitting 2 has a basic body 44 on, which is attached to the container (not shown), for example, is pushed onto the mouth of the container. The reference number 42 refers to a first valve body which is displaceable in the longitudinal direction L of the container to allow or close an outflow from the keg.

Specifically, with the help of this first valve body 42 that by a spring 46 biased upward (and movable in the direction L) is an unwanted leakage of product through the fitting line 4 from the container 10 be prevented. For this purpose, this first valve body 42 on an opening 45 lay. The reference number 48 refers to a second valve body which in 3 by a spring 49 is biased upward and is movable in the direction L. This second valve body 48 serves to close another opening 49 (see. 4 ) of the keg fitting 2 to prevent product on the fitting line 4 over from the container 10 exit. In this second valve body 48 is also the one through the first valve body 42 lockable opening 45 arranged.

At the in 3 As shown, the flushing medium passes 14 through the opening 43 into the pipe 4 of the keg fitting 2 , The reference number 46 indicates, as I said, a Fede tion device, which for closing and opening the inflow of the flushing medium 14 into the pipe 4 (More specifically, for biasing the first valve body 42 ) serves. By opening the valve or adjusting the valve body 42 may be a purging of the fitting line 4 be effected.

4 shows a representation of an almost on the container 10 or the mouth 10a fitted keg fittings. In this state, it is possible that - by opening the second valve or moving the second valve body 48 the purge air 14 so by the Kegfitting 2 is steered that a purge of the interior 52 of the keg fitting 2 is made, but also a rinse the mouth area 10a of the container is possible. For this purpose, the flushing medium passes 14 also through the interior 52 of the keg fitting. More precisely, the valve body closes here 42 the opening 43 otherwise through the second valve body 48 closed opening 45 is however released.

5 shows a state where the lower end 4a the line 4 at the level of the liquid 12 already filled container 10 more precisely at the mouth 10a is. In this situation, the flushing medium passes 14 so over the line 4 to the outside, so also a flush of the headspace 10a of the container 10 is possible.

6 shows a corresponding embodiment of a Kegfittings 2 for containers with screw caps, more precisely for containers, which have an external thread 10b exhibit. The design of the kegfitting 2 , in particular with regard to the line 4 However, as in the case of 4 be shown embodiment.

7 Finally, a schematic representation of an alternative holder for the Kegfitting 2 , Also in this embodiment is a holding element 32 provided, which is the Kegfitting 2 leads or holds, said retaining element 32 in the longitudinal direction L is movable up and down via a moving unit. In addition, here is the stamp 34 or the admission unit of its own holding device 56 held and is with a movement device 58 also in the longitudinal direction L movable.

Via a supply line 30 the flushing medium can be supplied and the reference numeral 31 indicates a valve to supply the flushing medium to the line 4 and the container 10 to control.

All Features disclosed in the application documents are considered to be essential to the invention as far as they are individually or in combination the prior art are new.

2

keg fitting

4

fitting line

6

gripper

10

container

10a

muzzle

10b

External thread of the container 10

11

beam

12

liquid

14

flushing medium

16

filling nozzle

22

Moving unit rod guide

24

connecting device

25

sheet pocket

26

cam-controlled role

27

punch guide

28 30

supply lines

31

Valve

32

gripping element

34

cleaning device

35

stamp

37

midsection of the stamp

42

first valve body

43

recess

44

body

45

opening

48

second valve body

49

opening

52

room

56

holder

58

mover

L

longitudinal direction

I-V

steps

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102006026279 A1 [0003]
• WO 2008/145343 [0004]

Claims (14)

Process for producing liquids ( 12 ) filled plastic containers ( 10 ), the plastic containers ( 10 ) with the liquid ( 12 ) and with a keg fitting ( 2 ), characterized in that the keg fitting ( 2 ) by a relative movement between the plastic container ( 10 ) and the keg fitting ( 2 ) the plastic container ( 10 ) and the Kegfitting ( 2 ) with the plastic container ( 10 ), at least during the feeding process or the joining process, a cleaning treatment of Kegfittings ( 2 ) takes place. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that a in a manufactured container ( 10 ) within the container ( 2 ) arranged area of the Kegfittings ( 2 ) is cleaned. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the container ( 10 ) first with the liquid ( 12 ) and then the container ( 10 ) with the keg fitting ( 2 ) is closed. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that during the manufacturing process the plastic container ( 10 ) with a mouth ( 10a ) is oriented upwards. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one on the Kegfitting ( 2 ) arranged line ( 4 ) is rinsed by means of a gaseous medi ums. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that during the feeding of the keg fitting ( 2 ) to the container ( 10 ) penetration of liquid into the conduit ( 4 ). Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning of the keg fitting ( 2 ) and in particular the flushing of the pipe ( 4 ) during the relative movement between the keg fitting ( 2 ) and the container ( 10 ) takes place. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cleaning process of the kegfitting ( 2 ) also a cleaning of a headspace ( 10a ) of the container ( 10 ) causes. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the Kegfittung ( 2 ) is inspected. Device for producing liquids ( 12 ) filled plastic containers ( 10 ), these plastic containers ( 10 ) with a keg fitting ( 2 ) and with the liquid ( 2 ), wherein a connection device ( 24 ) is provided, which the plastic containers ( 10 ) with the keg fitting ( 2 ) and this connection device ( 24 ) the plastic containers ( 10 ) relative to the keg fitting ( 2 ) characterized in that the device comprises at least one cleaning device ( 34 ), which at least a portion of the Kegfittings ( 2 ) at least during the relative movement of the keg fitting ( 2 ) opposite the plastic container ( 10 ) or the connection process of the kegfitting ( 2 ) on the plastic container ( 10 ), this cleaning device ( 34 ) the keg fitting ( 2 ) a cleaning medium ( 14 ) feeds. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the connecting device ( 24 ) the keg fitting ( 2 ) relative to the container ( 10 ) in a longitudinal direction (L) of the container ( 10 ) emotional. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the connecting device ( 24 ) a gripping device ( 32 ) for gripping the keg fittings ( 2 ) having. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims 10-12, characterized in that the cleaning device ( 34 ) a supply line ( 30 ), which the Kegfitting ( 2 ) supplies the cleaning medium. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device is designed such that the kegfitting ( 2 ) supplied cleaning medium and a headspace ( 10a ) of the container ( 10 ) is supplied.